Investing in a new exhaust canopy for your cafe or commercial kitchen is a significant decision that impacts safety, compliance, and your bottom line. As you prepare to sign the contract, there are essential questions you must ask to protect your business and ensure long-term value.
At NXT GEN Canopies, we pride ourselves on empowering cafe & restaurant owners by providing transparent advice, negotiation tips, and due diligence steps. To ensure you're informed and confident, here are the top five questions you should always ask before signing an exhaust canopy contract.
Never assume everything is covered. Clarify precisely what’s included:
Exhaust canopy and system
Installation costs
Additional fire proof stainless steel wall sheets, registers, trims, ducting or fans
Is mechanical engineering needed? (REG126)
Is compliance certification provided to state everything is up to Australian Standards AS1668.1 & AS1668.2.
Negotiation Tip:
Ask for a clear, itemised breakdown. If something critical is missing, you’ll have the information needed to negotiate effectively.
Compliance is crucial. You must confirm the system meets Australian Standards (e.g., AS/NZS 1668.1 and AS/NZS 1668.2). Failure to comply can lead to fines, additional costs, and potential operational shutdowns.
Due Diligence Step:
Request compliance certificates or supporting documentation upfront to protect your investment.
A robust warranty and aftercare program reflect confidence in the product. Confirm what’s covered:
Duration and scope of the warranty, NXT GEN Canopies can give an extended warranty on canopies.
Fans come with a 1 year warranty.
Does the canopy company have a referral partner for cleaning and maintenance?
Negotiation Tip:
Negotiate for extended warranty or free initial maintenance checks to further protect your investment.
Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and compliance. Clarify ongoing maintenance responsibilities and expenses to avoid surprise costs.
Due Diligence Step:
Request a detailed maintenance schedule. Consider signing a fixed-price maintenance agreement upfront for budgeting certainty.
Your kitchen will evolve. It's crucial your exhaust canopy can accommodate potential expansions or equipment upgrades.
Negotiation Tip:
Discuss adaptability upfront. Negotiate terms that allow flexibility, potentially saving significant future expenses.
At NXT GEN Canopies, we act as your trusted advisor. Our transparent approach ensures all your questions are answered clearly, positioning you to negotiate confidently and securely. Our experienced team prioritises compliance, transparency, and customer satisfaction—giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.
